Fresh Whole Belly Frying Clams

Mya arenaria

What is the difference between the small (select) and the large (regular) size clams?

• The small clams are around 2 - 2.5 inches long and the large size clams are 3 - 3.5 inches long. They are the exact same clam harvested from the same areas, it is only the size of the clam that makes them different. The large clams also have larger bellies.

Is there a taste difference between the two sizes?

• There is no difference in taste between the two sizes, but most people do say the larger size clams have more flavor due to the larger size bellies.

Are the clams supposed to be “chewy?”

• No, they are not supposed to be, it does not matter which size. If you find the clams to be “chewy,” then that means they are overcooked. These clams cook very fast, so you want to keep an eye on them.

Which size is the most popular?

• Our online customers have been LOVING the large size clams, the majority of our customers are New England natives that have moved to other parts of the USA who miss and love their fried clams. Our wholesale customers (Intershell’s customers & seafood companies that distribute to restaurants) prefer the smaller size clams. It all comes down to personal preference.

It is my first time eating whole belly clams, which size should I get?

• If it is your first time trying our whole belly clams, we recommend trying the smaller size first. The smaller size clams have smaller bellies which makes the flavor on the more mild side, people who prefer mild flavors for their seafood find them easier to eat. We include recipe cards with cooking directions in all whole belly frying clam orders, we also have it on our website too which you can download and print at your convenience.

I want to fry the clams at home, do you also sell breading?

• Yes, we have seafood breading available to purchase. The owner has used this specific breading for the last 30 years for all of his frying needs and swears by it!

Do you have frozen available in both sizes?

• Yes, we have frozen frying clams available. They are packed in a 2 Lb. container. For more information about our frozen frying clams, click here to view the product description & FAQ’s.

Do you offer a smaller container for the fresh frying clams?

• We only offer a 4 Lb container for the fresh whole belly frying clams.

Can I freeze what I do not eat?

• You can freeze what you do not eat, many of our customers portion the clams at home themselves in freezer safe bags. When freezing the clams at home, make sure there is no air in the bag before storing them. Remember: a good product going into the freezer is a good product coming out of the freezer. For the best frozen frying clams results, make sure to freeze them well BEFORE the best by date, don’t wait until the last minute!

Rain Closures and Red Tide can affect the year-round availability and price of this product. Click here to read our blog post explaining all the external factors that can affect the availability of wild-caught seafood.